Pest control in Alabama

What to know about pest control in Alabama

Alabama's warm, humid climate suits termites and fire ants. Alabama Extension notes that termites can be active year-round in most of the state. Knowing what to look for, and who licenses the companies that treat it, makes it easier to hire well.

Common pests in Alabama

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System writes about these pests for homeowners and growers across the state.

• Subterranean termites. Both native subterranean termites and the invasive Formosan termite infest homes in Alabama. Formosan termites are most common in the hot, humid coastal counties such as Mobile and Baldwin, and Extension entomologists have reported more serious infestations in central Alabama too. See our page on termites.
• Fire ants. Alabama Extension reports fire ants active throughout the state. The key to control is killing the queen, and Extension advises against home remedies such as boiling water or gasoline. See our page on ants.
• Ticks. Alabama Extension says the lone star tick is the most abundant tick in the state. Spotted fever, whose most severe form is Rocky Mountain spotted fever, is the most commonly reported tick-borne illness in Alabama. The brown dog tick is found statewide and can live its whole life indoors. Pets that spend time outside can also carry ticks into the house. See our page on fleas and ticks.

Who licenses pest control companies in Alabama

The Pesticide Management Section of the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries licenses pest control businesses. A company doing structural pest control needs a Professional Services license, which covers household pest control, fumigation and the control of wood-destroying organisms such as termites. Each licensed business must have a certified operator who has passed the exam for each category of work. Read more on the department's Professional Services page, and check individual applicators with its pesticide applicator search.

How to check a company before you hire

1. Ask for the company's Professional Services license number and the name of its certified operator. Confirm them with the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries.
2. For termite work, ask which termite they found, what evidence shows it, and which treatment they recommend.
3. Ask how many follow-up inspections are included and what the warranty covers.
4. Get the treatment plan and any warranty in writing before work starts.
5. Read reviews from other Alabama customers. If you've hired a company, you can write a review to help your neighbors, and learn how reviews work.